September 12, 2014

Michaels Story

Today we would like you to get to know Michael who is homeless in Austin. Although born in Mankato Minnesota, he loves him some Longhorns! When looking through the donated clothing you can always hear him asking for some "burnt orange" so he can represent his favorite team.

Michael is well mannered, talkative, and always smiling or laughing. Everyone knows a person like Michael. He's the guy who never complains, and always answers the question of hows he doing with "I'm great!" "How are you?" even when you know it's not true. For example when asked why he was on the streets, his first reply was, "Because I want to be." However, there's a lot of pain behind that desire.

It wasn't always this way for him. "We had it all!" he exclaimed. "Wife, two dogs, good job, and a nice place to live." His story turned sideways after that though. "My wife passed away a bunch of years ago." He tried a few roommates for four or five months, but one thing after another seemed to happen. It all piled up and he lost everything.

He says he's got a "couple gigs" that he does everyday to get enough cash to get by. "I'm reasonably happy." he said with a smile. He live's under the bridge, "a sweet little spot all by myself.'

Our final question was about the future, and "what do you want to be when you grow up?" When he answered there was no smile or laugh. His answer was short. It could have been echoed by a lot of those that come see us in the morning. It's the answer that breaks our hearts to see in them. One that we are blessed everyday we don't feel..."I don't care anymore."